George Washington, dressed in full period costume, asks a group of kids if they’d like to help him win a battle. No, it’s not the 18th century — it’s Liberty Camp for Kids, an annual weeklong experience in which campers are immersed in the world of the American Revolution.
“We are reenacting the key events of the American Revolution,” says camp director Rita Scott, noting that every camp volunteer is dressed in period clothes.
Hosted on the grounds of the Portage County Historical Society July 21 to 25 this year, the camp aims to bring history to life through themed experiences, encounters with costumed reenactors and educational activities. Instead of crossing a real river to help Washington, for example, kids remove their shoes and wade through shallow pools of icy water, mimicking the wintry temperature of the Delaware River. Additionally, in the past, campers discussed the Constitution with Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, acted out the ride of Paul Revere, met Patrick Henry, reenacted the Boston Tea Party and more.
“Another goal of the camp is for these epic figures, like George Washington, Betsy Ross, Abigail Adams, all kinds of people — Ben Franklin — to become real people, so they can relate to them,” Scott says.
Liberty Camp is open to first through sixth graders. A typical day, from 9 a.m. to noon, features a visit from an elected official, with previous visitors including Ravenna Mayor Frank Seman and state Rep. Heidi Workman.
At stations, kids might create an old-fashioned toy called a whirligig from thread and a button, buy molasses cookies with wooden nickels or interact with a Colonial woman upset about British soldiers lodging in her home.
“By the end of the week, they really have an understanding of what life was like,” Scott says. “At the snack station, for example, they learn how to churn butter and grind corn with a stone, which is very hard.”
Activities such as these help kids to understand history in a tactile way.
“We want them to remember it. That’s why the interactive play structure really works,” Scott says. “If you’re going to be an active citizen, then you need to understand what the country’s about.”
6549 N. Chestnut St., Ravenna, libertycampforkids.com
